Alisa Lee, an electoral program manager for Sage Leaders and a dedicated community advocate, has been selected to complete the remaining term of Aaron Pointer on the Board of Park Commissioners. The unanimous decision came during a special meeting on Friday, Dec. 20, following interviews with four finalists.
Lee’s extensive experience includes serving on Metro Parks’ Active Lifestyles and Community Wellness Advisory Council, working as a cohort advisor for Magic Cabinet, and previously serving as a board member for Asian and Pacific Islanders for Civic Empowerment. Her professional focus is on supporting candidates from marginalized communities as they run for office.
“As an experienced board member and community connector, I have devoted my life to public service and building skills that bring people together to find the best possible outcomes through an equity lens,” Lee stated in her application.
A first-generation Vietnamese American, Lee expressed her alignment with Metro Parks’ mission of fostering cultural understanding and community wellness. She credited Tacoma’s welcoming environment for inspiring her and others to call the city home. Lee was sworn in at the conclusion of Friday’s meeting and will serve through 2025.
Filling Vacancies on the Park Board
Lee replaces Commissioner Aaron Pointer, who retired on Dec. 10 after 24 years of service. Two additional seats remain vacant following the passing of Commissioner Tim Reid, Metro Parks’ longest-serving board member, on Dec. 12, and the upcoming resignation of Commissioner Rosie Ayala, effective Dec. 31.
- Tim Reid’s Seat: Reid’s successor will serve through December 2025.
- Rosie Ayala’s Seat: Ayala’s term ends in December 2027. Her successor must run in the regular 2025 election to complete the term.
Updated Timeline for Appointments
- Jan. 13: Commissioners will select finalists for Reid’s seat during the first Park Board meeting of 2025.
- Week of Feb. 3: Interviews for Reid’s position will take place during a special meeting.
- Feb. 10: Finalists’ qualifications will be discussed, and Reid’s successor will be appointed.
- Feb. 24: Finalists for Ayala’s seat will be selected.
- Week of March 3: Interviews for Ayala’s position will be conducted.
- March 10: Ayala’s successor will be appointed.
Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion
Metro Parks Tacoma prioritizes inclusion, diversity, equity, and access, striving to represent the community’s diversity on its policymaking board. Established in 1907 as the state’s first independent parks agency, Metro Parks manages over 2,900 acres of land, including 80 parks and major attractions like Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park.